Activities of Technology Environment Society

'Vision Probaho', the mother organization of Technology Environment Society, was a group of the Ph.D. students of IIT Kharagpur with a mission to work for the sustainability of the environment. With time, there came the need to move it under the authority of Gymkhana. And finally, in November 2021, the Technology Environment Society (TES) was founded as a Student Welfare Society. From the start, the goal of TES is to the conservation and preservation of the environment and to promote sustainability in society.

After the foundation of TES, various projects, seminars and social outreach programs were organized with a unified mission of making everyone more aware of the importance of sustainability in today’s world. These activities of TES during 2022- 23 are described in the following:

Academic Year 2022-23

1. Earth Day Celebration: The Honorable Director, Prof. Virendra Kumar Tewari, of IIT Kharagpur inaugurated the Gaura Devi Herbal Garden on 22nd April, 2022 as a part of the Earth Day celebration. Our aim was to make all the stakeholders of KGP campus aware of the importance of the medicinal properties of herbal plants that are found in our surroundings. The garden was named after Gaura Devi, a notable leader in the revolutionary Chipko Movement. Esteemed professors and many enthusiastic students took part in tree planting in the garden.

2. World Environment Day celebration 2022: To celebrate the world environment day, an anti-plastic awareness campaign was carried out in our Tech Market. President, Technology Students’ Gymkhana encouraged us in this event by presiding over the event. United Nations theme for 2022 Environment Day #OnlyOneEarth served as our vision for the celebration. We experienced very spontaneous and enthusiastic participation from the students of the campus with slogans, placards and posters. We visited all the shopkeepers in the Tech Market, and we provided biodegradable cotton and jute bags to them to encourage them to avoid plastic bags.

3. Roots of Freedom: The last year marked the Diamond Jubilee of Indian independence. To celebrate this remarkable milestone, we conducted a tree plantation drive in collaboration with Team SHUNYA, IIT Bombay, NSS IIT Bombay, Sustainability Cell IIT Bombay, Social Service Club, IIT Guwahati, Students' Welfare Board, IIT Guwahati, and Rotaract Club Of MSIT. In this program honorable Dean, Infrastructure Prof. Khanindra Pathak, Dean Research and Development Prof. Suman Chakraborty, President of Technology Students' Gymkhana, Prof. Ajay K. Singh, Prof. Anil Kumar Gupta from Dept. of Geology and Geophysics, Prof. Damodar Maity from Dept. of Civil Engineering, Prof. Ashok K. Gupta, School of Water Resources and Civil Engineering, Prof. Dewashish Upadhyay from Dept. Of Geology & Geophysics, Prof. Trilok Singh from Energy sciences and Engineering, and Mr. S. K. Biswas, Senior executive engineer of Horticulture section IIT Kharagpur shared their valuable thoughts to make the environment more sustainable. We planted 80 additional trees in the "Gaura Devi Herbal Garden".

4. Webinar (Pondering Ponds by Mr. Ranveer Tanwar): Water is a prerequisite for all development activities, and thus its conservation and efficient management needs to take center stage in our lives. Our honorable guest Mr. Ranveer Tanwar (also known as Pond man of India) shared his views regarding restoration of ponds and other waterbodies. Healthy water bodies are essential for a thriving urban ecosystem.

5. Hand-on training by "Green Commandos" Team: Trained under Farmer Samir Bordoloi, founder of the Green Commandos and co-founder of SPREAD NE, Green Commandos lead farmers towards local seed saving, compassionate farming and building social enterprise based on their own capabilities. Happiness index of people is a major priority of the Green Commandos and growing with Nature slowly towards a healthy life is the aim. The Department of Mining Engineering organized an Offline Outreach Programme on "Training the Green Commandos for Development of Food Forest in Post Mining Areas" during October 17-21, 2022 and TES took part in it. It provided us a great opportunity to learn from Farmer Samir Bordoloi and his team through hands-on training on heap composting, making biochar, natural farming, and food forest development.

6. Students’ Induction Program: In this programme, we introduce our objective to the freshers of IIT KGP and try motivating them. TES has planned a small competition where all freshers need gives some ideas on saving the environment. Based on their ideas, they won planted pots as prizes. And all attendees were given handmade clay pot as a memento.

7. Tree Census Project:
The Tree Census is a significant initiative undertaken by the Technology Environment Society (TES) at IIT Kharagpur, aimed at digitizing the fauna and floral data of the campus. This project is an essential step towards mapping and classifying the tree population based on scientific and ecological parameters, contributing to both long-term environmental monitoring and academic research. The successful execution of this project has been made possible through the invaluable contribution of the NSS wings of IIT Kharagpur, whose involvement in data collection has been critical in ensuring that the digitization process is both comprehensive and accurate. This census highlights the importance of community involvement in ecological conservation and sustainability efforts on campus, positioning IIT Kharagpur as a leading institution in environmental stewardship. Moreover, the tree census serves as a pioneering scientific, technological, and educational initiative, with far-reaching implications for ecological monitoring and environmental sustainability, both within academic institutions and beyond. It reflects a strong commitment to understanding and preserving the campus’s green infrastructure, potentially setting a benchmark for similar projects at other Indian Institutes and globally.

Working Procedure: Technological and Digital Integration

• The campus has been systematically divided into grids to ensure thorough coverage, preventing data gaps or overlap. This structured approach enhances the accuracy of tracking tree locations and population density.
• Student groups have been assigned to specific grids, promoting student engagement in scientific research and environmental monitoring, offering practical exposure to ecological data collection and analysis.
• The collected data, including information on species, girth, height, and geographic location, is digitized and stored in a centralized database, facilitating long-term monitoring and enabling the observation of trends in tree health, population shifts, or species migration
• Additionally, the data can be integrated into geospatial mapping systems, providing visual representations of the campus’s tree cover. This data supports further research into ecological health, carbon sequestration potential, and the extent of tree canopy coverage.

Key Aspects of the Tree Census

Scientific and Ecological Significance

• The classification of the tree population based on structure (e.g., size, age, species diversity), function (e.g., oxygen production, carbon sequestration, habitat provision), and value (e.g., aesthetic, cultural, ecological importance) generates a comprehensive dataset that can be utilized for ecological studies.
• This census is essential for tracking the health and diversity of the campus flora. It allows for the identification of trees that are thriving and those under stress, facilitating the identification of environmental stressors such as pollution, soil degradation, or the effects of climate change.
• The process of monitoring tree health enables the early detection of diseases or adverse conditions (such as pest infestations, drought stress, or root damage), allowing for timely interventions aimed at preserving the ecosystem

Educational and Research Impact

• The Tree Census serves as an important educational tool, offering students practical experience in fields such as ecology, botany, geography, and data science. This hands-on approach helps deepen their understanding of urban forestry and sustainable environmental management.
• The comprehensive dataset produced by this project provides a valuable resource for academic research, allowing for the exploration of trends in biodiversity, ecosystem services, and the effects of urbanization on flora.
• The census also offers a framework for future studies on tree populations and broader environmental issues such as climate resilience, species adaptation, and the role of vegetation in mitigating urban heat.

Institutional and Policy Implications

• The findings from the Tree Census can be instrumental in guiding campus planning and green space management, informing decisions on tree planting, preservation efforts, and urban infrastructure development.
• The data supports the creation of sustainable policies aimed at maintaining biodiversity, improving air quality, and optimizing shade distribution across the campus.
• Identifying trees that are stressed or deteriorating allows the institution to allocate resources more efficiently for tree care and maintenance, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable tree canopy.

Unique and Pioneering Scale

• This is the first large-scale project of its kind within Indian Institutes, emphasizing the visionary scope of the initiative. It sets a precedent for other educational institutions in India and globally to undertake similar projects, recognizing the importance of their natural resources.
• The approach used in the Tree Census can be expanded beyond academic campuses to urban settings, providing the foundation for citywide tree censuses that would inform municipal planning, environmental conservation, and public health strategies.

Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Engagement

• The success of this large-scale census has relied on collaboration across multiple disciplines, including geology, biology, environmental science, geography, and information technology. This interdisciplinary approach enhances the project’s depth, providing a holistic understanding of the campus environment.
• The project fosters a sense of community responsibility among participants, encouraging the development of environmental stewardship practices that extend beyond academic life.

Broader Impact

• The long-term benefits of the Tree Census extend beyond the immediate academic community. The project serves as a living repository of campus biodiversity, providing future generations with a resource to study environmental changes and adapt to new ecological challenges.
• The documentation and preservation of the campus's green heritage align with global sustainability goals, such as those relating to climate action and biodiversity conservation. In conclusion, the Tree Census is a forward-thinking initiative that integrates environmental responsibility, technological innovation, and educational growth. It significantly contributes to the broader objective of creating a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem on campus, while also providing valuable data for scientific research and policy development. This initiative serves as a model for incorporating ecological conservation into the academic framework of Indian Institutes, promoting both environmental awareness and proactive action for a greener future.

8. Spring Fest Celebration: Spring Fest is the celebration of youth in this evergreen campus. We installed a stall to use this chance to make our young students aware of the problems and possible solutions of the problems that our environment is facing. We also organized a Treasure Hunt, which witnessed a very enthusiastic participation of more than hundred students. We also created some bookmarks, paintings etc. by reusing waste papers and colors. We also encouraged everyone to use biodegradable bags in collaboration with artists from Pingla village.

9. Social Outreach Program:
Balasore Train Accident Emergency Relief Fundraising On 2nd June 2023 evening, the country was shocked by a tragic railway accident between the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, the Shalimar-Chennai Central Coromandel Express and a goods train near Bahanaga Bazar Station, Balasore, Odisha resulting death toll around 300 with hundreds injured. The injured and their family needed immediate help. People from all over Odisha and beyond came forward in this time of need to donate food, water and blood. When the rescue operations were ongoing, the site of the accident witnessed some tireless faces. These were the faces of Policemen, Army, NDRF, ODRAF, Railway, other working staff and common people who were making sure to send the victims to the hospital for treatment and to bring the train service back to normal. On 3rd June 2023, Technology Environment Society of IIT Kharagpur and Vision Prabaho (an NGO run by IIT kharagpur alumni) took a decision to come forward and act on ground to ensure the needs of the people are met, be it the patients, their families or the support for working staffs. Many people came forward and showered upon us overwhelming support overnight and joined us for this noble cause. On 4th June 2023 evening we ensured that the relief had been reached in the right places and the people it was meant to. Our collective efforts led us to help the needy at the accident spot - Bahanaga Bazar Station, Balasore, Odisha. We distributed food, fruits, biscuits, cakes, sattu, puffed rice, chura, water bottles, ORS and glucon-D water etc. among the workers there. We also visited Balasore Medical College to meet the patients; however, by that time most of the patients were moved to hospitals of Odisha, Bengal, and Bihar. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Smile Foundation, Balasore. It was because of their help and timely coordination that we could execute our efforts there. We have recently made the decision to assist the struggling families by offering financial aid for their children's education, medical support for the elderly members, or any other necessary assistance. To accomplish this, we are actively collaborating with various government hospitals to reach out to the affected family members and provide the required support.

10. Environment Day Celebration 2023:
On June 5, 2023, the Technology Environment Society celebrated Environment Day with a strong emphasis on the theme #BeatPlasticPollution, aligning with the United Nations' initiative. The event attracted nearly 100 students who came together to engage in discussions and activities aimed at raising awareness about the critical issue of plastic pollution and its impact on the environment. A key highlight of the program was a plastic upcycling workshop led by Binay Krishna Maity. During this workshop, participants learned innovative techniques for repurposing plastic waste into useful items, encouraging both creativity and sustainability. The event not only provided valuable insights into the importance of reducing plastic consumption but also motivated students to take practical steps towards fostering a more sustainable future. By equipping attendees with the skills to transform plastic waste, the event aimed to inspire a proactive approach to environmental conservation and waste management.

11. Magazine ECOnscious and Tree Census Report publication:
On the occasion of World Environment Day 2023, our annual magazine “ECOnscious” and the annual report for Tree Census activity was published by the esteemed guests present in the program. Many TES members, IIT KGP current students and alumni have contributed for this magazine.
TES aims to enhance and preserve the socio-ecological space within the IIT Kharagpur campus, with a focus on sustainability and community welfare. We wish to increase our area of work in the future and spread awareness about sustainability of the environment among the common people beyond the walls of KGP

Team TES

Academic Year 2023-24

1. Treasure Hunt:
The Technology Environment Society organized a highly successful treasure hunt event on campus, attracting over 1800 students from various departments of IIT Kharagpur. The event aimed to promote awareness about the society’s activities and emphasize the importance of adopting eco-friendly practices. Through an engaging and interactive format, participants navigated through various eco-themed clues and challenges spread across the campus, learning about sustainability and environmental responsibility along the way. The overwhelming turnout demonstrated the enthusiasm and interest of the student community in environmental issues, aligning with the society’s mission to foster eco-awareness. This event not only served as an educational platform but also strengthened student engagement with the society’s initiatives, making it a landmark event in our efforts to build a sustainable and eco-conscious campus.

2. Induction Program:
Following the treasure hunt, the Technology Environment Society organized an induction program to introduce students to our activities, initiatives, and the team, while emphasizing the importance of protecting nature. The program highlighted various events we conduct to promote sustainability on campus and invited interested students to join our team. This provided an opportunity for new members to actively contribute to our initiatives, participate in future events, and collaborate on promoting eco-friendly practices. The induction aimed to engage and inspire students to take on active roles in advancing environmental sustainability at IIT Kharagpur.

3. Swacchata hi seva
On the 1st of October, the Technology Environment Society, in collaboration with Gymkhana, IIT Kharagpur, organized the "Swacchata Hi Seva" event, attracting over 1500 participants, including students, staff, and faculty. The event aimed to promote cleanliness and environmental sustainability by bringing the campus community together to clean various areas of the campus. Participants were divided into teams to collect litter, clean pathways, and beautify public spaces, fostering a sense of responsibility towards maintaining a cleaner environment. The event emphasized that cleanliness should not be a one-time effort but a continuous practice, encouraging participants to adopt sustainable habits like proper waste disposal and reducing plastic use. The success of the event showcased the power of collective action, reinforcing the importance of cleanliness and sustainability in ensuring IIT Kharagpur remains a model of environmental consciousness.

4. Tree Census Project: The tree census is a crucial scientific, technological, and educational initiative that enables us to classify the tree population based on structure, function, and value. The findings from this census will assist us in monitoring the health of the trees on campus, allowing for the identification of stress causes that can be reported to the relevant authorities. To conduct the census, the entire campus has been divided into grids, with each grid assigned to a group of students. These groups further divide their tasks to note down the details and locations of the trees, which are then digitized along with their information. This comprehensive data collection not only facilitates easier research and paperwork for future studies but also enhances our understanding of the campus's ecological health. This is the first of its kind project within Indian Institutes happening at a very large scale.

5. Spring Fest Celebration:Spring Fest is the celebration of youth in this evergreen campus. We installed a stall to use this chance to make our young students aware of the problems and possible solutions of the problems that our environment is facing. We also organized a Treasure Hunt, which witnessed a very enthusiastic participation of more than hundred students. We also created some bookmarks, paintings etc. by reusing waste papers and colors. We also encouraged everyone to use biodegradable bags in collaboration with artists from Pingla village.

6. Plantation Drive:
On the 6th of October, the Technology Environment Society, in association with Shaurya, organized a plantation drive across various locations on campus, including Nalanda, Mahatma Gandhi Stadium, near LLR Hall, the Geology Department, behind the herbal garden, and Coral. This initiative aimed to enhance the greenery of the campus while raising awareness about the importance of tree planting and environmental conservation. The drive saw active participation from students, faculty, and staff, all contributing to the effort to make the campus more eco-friendly and sustainable.

8. Environment Day Celebration 2024:
In collaboration with the Mishka Foundation, the Technology Environment Society celebrated World Environment Day with a series of impactful initiatives. The celebration included a tree plantation drive to enhance the campus greenery, the release of our annual magazine, and the publication of a campus tree census report, which highlighted the diversity and importance of trees on campus. Additionally, an eco-quiz was conducted to engage young minds and promote environmental awareness among students. Through these activities, we aimed to foster a deeper understanding of environmental issues and inspire the community to take an active role in sustainability efforts.

Technology Environment Society aims to enhance and preserve the socio-ecological space within the IIT Kharagpur campus, with a focus on sustainability and community welfare. We wish to increase our area of work in the future and spread awareness about sustainability of the environment among the common people beyond the walls of KGP.